Page 104 of Galen's Redemption
Chapter Twenty-Six
GALEN WASon the ladder, hanging the strings of garland, while Robert untangled the strings of lights that would go around the common room. “I can’t believe it’s going to be Christmas in a few days.”
Robert looked up and huffed a breath. “I know. No clue how it snuck up on us like this.”
Though he dreaded the answer, Galen needed to ask the question that had been plaguinghim for the past few days. “Have you heard from Tom?”
“He called last week for a minute because Brian insisted. They found a cabin for sale in Crivitz. Brian fell in love with the place, so Tom bought it. He says they like sitting outside at night and watching dusk turn to dark. He says they can hear the animals in the woods around them. Brian’s favorite is an owl that sits in the tree abovetheir place and hoots.”
“How is he feeling?”
“Not so good. They’re not coming back for Christmas. Tom’s hoping Brian will make it to the new year, but it’s not looking good.”
It hurt to think that the world was going to be without the light that Brian held inside. When they’d talked at the parents’ house, Brian had been sweet and charming and witty. He’d huddled close to Galen, whispering plansfor after his death so Tom would be taken care of. Galen couldn’t believe what he was doing, but it made sense in a way. Tom had taken care of Brian his whole life, and Brian wanted to return the favor.
“I’m sorry to hear that.”
Robert pulled the last of the lights from the box and held them aloft. “Finally! I don’t understand how these lights get so messed up. When I put them away, I had themall nicely wrapped, and then I open the box and find a rat’s nest instead.”
Galen yawned. “What do you say we finish those tomorrow?”
“Yeah, I’m tired too. Do you want to stay here tonight?”
The thought of driving back to Andy’s left Galen cold, but he had to get home and take care of Mouse. “Thanks, but I have a kitten who needs me.” He climbed down the ladder and turned, surprised to findRobert there.
“I need you too.”
Strong arms surrounded him and held Galen close enough that he could swear he heard Robert’s heart beating.
“We need to talk, though.”
That never ended well. “Do we have to?”
“Afraid so. I’ve been invited to a party at Lincoln and Noel’s friend’s house. I told them I’d show up.”
“Oh. Okay.” Why did it hurt that Robert wasn’t going to be with him on Christmas?It wasn’t like they’d discussed any plans.
Robert reached up and pinched Galen’s lip. “Put that back where it belongs. I told them I’d make an appearance. I’m not planning on staying all night. I have someone else who I want to see.”
“You do?”
“Yup, Mouse hasn’t had a visit from me for a while.”
Galen snorted. “Asshole.”
“I’m going to go, have some eggnog, then come get you so you can unwrapyour present.”
“What present?”
Robert leaned in close and blew gently in Galen’s ear. He took Galen’s hand and slid it down to his cock. “This.”
“Oh, that. Listen, can I return it for the proper size?”
“What? You bastard!”
Galen snickered, then stood on his toes to kiss Robert. “I’m kidding. Your cock touches me in all those hard-to-reach spots. I love it…. And you.”
He pulled Robert downinto a kiss, hoping he could express what was in his heart. Ever since he’d talked with Brian, Galen had been desperate to make sure he told Robert how much he was loved. Seeing Brian approaching the end, Galen could only hope that he would be able to meet his destiny with as much courage.
